Nolan has won three caps for the Republic of Ireland

Preston boss Alan Irvine has said that Eddie Nolan's display as an emergency centre-half in the draw with Blackpool has given him food for thought.

The 21-year-old, who joined North End from Blackburn in January, replaced the ill Liam Chilvers shortly before the 1-1 draw at Bloomfield Road.

"He played very well after being given his first chance there," Irvine told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"We've got a small squad and to have players like Eddie is terrific."

Irvine has made 10 starts for Preston this season and made his debut for the Republic of Ireland against Georgia in March.

"We've used him a lot at left-back, mainly through injuries to Callum [Davidson] last season," added Irvine.

"But he played well enough in that position to be picked for the Republic of Ireland by [Giovanni] Trapattoni. So we must be doing something right."

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